Synopsis
Did you know that once upon a time, about 8 million years ago, guinea pigs weren't sweet, cute, or little?
We all know about the enormous dinosaurs that used to roam the earth, but millions of years ago, there were GREAT BIG GUINEA PIGS, too!
During a bedtime story, one little guinea pig learns all about his very big ancestors, and how guinea pigs evolved into the lovable pets we have today.
This fun and factual picture book by Susan Roth features richly textured cut-paper illustrations that bring to life the story of the great, big, prehistoric guinea pig.
Children's Literature
Did you know that there were prehistoric guinea pigs? This book tells the story of how guinea pigs evolved from a giant size to the small pets they are today. Based on scientific research, this fictionalized account begins with a guinea pig telling her child a bedtime story of how the guinea pigs lived in prehistoric times. She tells him that they were as big as buffalo and weighed a ton. They lived in Venezuela in the swamp and ate grass. They loved to swim, but had to watch out for the hungry alligators. The theory is that when their food began to disappear, they became smaller and quicker. Some stayed wild, but some became "cuter and friendlier." The last page includes a bibliography and facts list about guinea pigs. The large collage illustrations are made from textured cut papers such as canvas, cellophane, and contact paper. The splashy results are interesting and create visual fun. Children will be fascinated by the story and the artwork.